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Workers from the Toronto Public Library, members of CUPE 4948, today celebrated Ontario Public Library Week with sweet treats and a message that great libraries have great patrons and great people working for them.

“It’s always great to see how much people in Toronto love their libraries and today is no exception,” said CUPE 4948 Executive Board member Mary Bissell.

Earlier today, library workers handed out candy treats, postcards and buttons at the Toronto Reference Library to commemorate Public Library Week, which began October 16 and runs until October 22.

Since its inception in 1883, Toronto’s libraries have grown into North America’s most well-used library system, serving millions at 100 neighbourhood branches across the city.

Since 1985, Public Library Week has highlighted the vital contributions that public libraries make towards enhancing the quality of life for all residents. Across Ontario, CUPE library workers are marking the week with celebrations scheduled in 16 different communities.

In addition to celebrating the contributions libraries and library workers make to their communities, Public Library Week provides an opportunity to discuss the importance of ensuring libraries and library workers have the resources and tools to best serve their communities, while providing important services and good jobs.

“Libraries make our communities better places to live in, and that’s cause for celebration in and of itself,” said CUPE 4948 President Maureen O’Reilly who also chairs CUPE Ontario’s Library Workers Committee.

“But while we’re celebrating the libraries in our communities, it’s also important to pay tribute to the thousands of people across the province who work every day to make our libraries great,” she added.